Since I was massively overleveled(45 now and ready to go to Balmorra, a 32 world, and I've been 5-10 levels overleveled since my early 20s), my companions were in the best gear by wearing crafted gear since the quest reward gear was too few and far between(an entire planet to get an entire set, and I had to choose between one companion or the other?), and too low level to be of use.

"Sir,we are beginning our search for these rumored 'underwater villages'.They will not stay hidden for long". -Battle Droid Commander OOM-9!